​CGLCC co-founders Bruce McDonald and Darrell Schuurman attended the 4th LGBT Summit of the Americas held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic March 2-4, 2016. The Summit corresponded with the launch of NGLCC Global’s newest affiliate, the Dominican Republic LGBT Chamber of Commerce (CCLGBTRD). The CGLCC is a member of the NGLCC Global Program, comprised of LGBT business organizations/chambers around the world.

The event provided an opportunity for Canada to meet with local LGBT businesses, corporate partners, and other global LGBT Chambers of Commerce, and discuss opportunities for continued collaboration and partnerships. Bruce participated on a panel of Global LGBT Chambers of Commerce, sharing with the delegates the experiences of the CGLCC, and offering support to the new Dominican Chamber as they continue to build.

While in the Dominican Republic, Darrell and Bruce met with Canadian Ambassador Steve Cote. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss trade opportunities between Canadian and Dominican LGBT owned businesses, and ways the Canadian Embassy could support LGBT efforts in the DR through economic opportunities.

CGLCC also entered into memorandums of understanding (MOU) with both the Dominican Republic LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the Colombian LGBT Chamber of Commerce. These MOUs fosters cooperation and partnership between the organizations, their members, the local affiliate chambers and the LGBT business owners. This partnership opens up opportunities for LGBT businesses in both countries to work together on joint ventures, share best practices and promote international trade.